Sicyoniidae

Common Names

Members of the Sicyoniidae family are commonly referred to as "flat lobsters," "slipper lobsters," or "spanner crabs" due to their flattened, often broad bodies. The name "scyllarid" is also widely used to describe these lobsters, derived from the genus Scyllarides.

Characteristics

Sicyoniidae lobsters are characterized by their flattened, dorsoventrally compressed bodies, which are typically broad and oval-shaped. They lack the prominent rostrum (a forward-pointing projection) common in other lobster species. Their antennae are short and flattened, resembling paddles, and they possess large, powerful claws. The body coloration of scyllarids varies between species, ranging from mottled brown and grey to vibrant hues of yellow, orange, and red.

Environments

Sicyoniidae lobsters inhabit diverse marine environments, including:

• Coral reefs: Many species are found in coral reef ecosystems, where they often reside in crevices and caves.
• Rocky shores: These lobsters can also be found along rocky shorelines, where they use their flattened bodies to squeeze into tight spaces.
• Seagrass beds: Some species are known to inhabit seagrass meadows, blending in with the surrounding vegetation.

Sicyoniidae lobsters are generally nocturnal and feed on a variety of organisms, including mollusks, crustaceans, and fish. They use their powerful claws to crush and break their prey.

References

• [https://www.marinespecies.org/aphia.php?p=taxdetails&id=107141](https://www.marinespecies.org/aphia.php?p=taxdetails&id=107141) - World Register of Marine Species
• [https://www.gbif.org/species/4293/](https://www.gbif.org/species/4293/) - Global Biodiversity Information Facility